The future of Sam Darnold, quarterback for the Minnesota Vikings, remains unclear as the team continues to deliberate on whether to use the franchise tag, re-sign him, or move in a different direction. Early reports regarding J.J. McCarthy indicate that the quarterback is expected to be fully recovered and ready to play in 2025 after suffering a torn meniscus that prematurely ended his rookie season.

Regardless of who ends up playing quarterback for the Vikings next year, star wide receiver Justin Jefferson remains optimistic about his ability to continue producing at a high level. He expressed confidence in his skills, stating, “It doesn’t matter who’s going to throw me that ball; I’m going to make the most of my opportunities. I’m going to try and make him look like the best quarterback in the whole NFL.”

Justin Jefferson

Recent reports indicate that the Vikings are unlikely to use the franchise tag on Darnold or pursue a tag-and-trade scenario. According to Spotrac, Darnold is projected to have a market value of $40.1 million in average annual salary.

The Vikings have until 4 p.m. Eastern time on Tuesday to decide whether to designate him with the franchise tag. Darnold, who had a standout season in 2024, passed for a career-high 4,319 yards, 35 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions. He will become an unrestricted free agent on March 12, the official start of the new NFL league year. Jefferson, in the meantime, also had another impressive season with Darnold as his quarterback, recording 103 receptions for 1,533 yards and 10 touchdowns on 154 targets.